Grethcel Soltones of Bali Pure attempts a spike against two Philippine Air Force blockers. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Bali Pure got into its act quickly and took the wind out of Philippine Air Force’s sails in four sets, 21-25, 25-19, 25-19, 25-21, in the season opener of the Premier Volleyball League Sunday at Filoil Flying V Centre.
Jerrili Malabanan, who only practiced with the Water Defenders three days ago, put Bali Pure in the winning column.
Water Defenders head coach Roger Gorayeb was all praise for Malabanan but he urged his team to gel quicker after playing a lackluster first set.
“Jerrili is a quick learner, she’s quiet and she just smiles a lot but that works for her,” said Gorayeb. “She’s a really big help for us.”
“They’re still finding their rhythm, because we were used to practice with our imports and when we got here they told us the papers haven’t been finalized.”
Foreign reinforcements need to secure International Transfer Certificates from the FIVB but as of posting time the papers haven’t been resolved.
Grethcel Soltones had 16 points to lead the Water Defenders while Malabanan and Risa Sato had 12 apiece.
Jocemer Tapic led the Lady Jet Spikers with 14 points while Joy Cases had a dozen.